7 days in Helsinki Region, Lakeland & Lapland Itinerary

Finland's largest and most populated metropolis, the maritime town of Helsinki boasts varied architecture, a lively cafe culture, and plethora of picturesque natural delights.

You'll get in some beach time at Aurinkolahti Beach and Hietaranta Beach. Do some cultural sightseeing at Sea Fortress Suomenlinna and Temppeliaukio Church. When in Helsinki, make a side trip to see Nuuksio National Park in Espoo, approximately Espoo away. There's much more to do: take in the spiritual surroundings of Kamppi Chapel of Silence, visit Ullanlinna, and get to know the resident critters at Korkeasaaren Elaintarha.

To find traveler tips, photos, ratings, and other tourist information, read Helsinki road trip tool.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to Helsinki is an approximately 13-hour flight. The time zone difference when traveling from Riyadh to Helsinki is minus 1 hour. Plan for much colder temperatures traveling from Riyadh in August, with highs in Helsinki at 24°C and lows at 13°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 22nd (Wed) to allow time to drive to Tampere.

Finland's third largest city, Tampere boasts an array of cultural offerings and a lively music scene.

Start off your visit on the 23rd (Thu): contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Tampereen Tuomiokirkko, then enjoy the sand and surf at Rauhaniemi Beach, and then enjoy the sand and surf at Suolijarvi Beach.

To see more things to do, reviews, maps, and more tourist information, refer to the Tampere attractions planner.

Traveling by car from Helsinki to Tampere takes 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or take a bus. Expect a daytime high around 23°C in August, and nighttime lows around 11°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 23rd (Thu) so you can travel to Akaslompolo.

On the 24th (Fri), stop by Akaslompolo Sportshop, then see exotic creatures in open habitats at a safari tour, and then get outside with Seven Fells Up.

To find ratings, where to stay, reviews, and more tourist information, read Akaslompolo online trip planner.

Fly from Tampere to Akaslompolo in 5.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or do a combination of train and bus. While traveling from Tampere, expect a bit cooler days and about the same nights in Akaslompolo, ranging from highs of 19°C to lows of 9°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 24th (Fri) early enough to travel back home.